The University of British Columbia Athletics

MUSCLE MLK ATHLETE OF THE WEEK


Maria Bernard (Calgary) capped off her university career in spectacular fashion, winning two individual titles and the women's Outstanding Performer award at the NAIA Outdoor Track and Field Championships in Gulf Shores, Ala.

She dominated the women's 3,000-metre steeplechase, leading from start to finish and winning her second straight steeplechase national title in a time of 10 minutes and 12.44 seconds.

In Friday's preliminaries, Bernard broke the NAIA national meet record of 10:12.31 set in 2009.

Bernard then won the 5,000 metres, overcoming teammate Amelie de Fenoyl on the final lap to win in 17:13.83.

Bernard's efforts earned her the NAIA's Herbert B. Marett Outstanding Performer award, which was handed out during the post-meet ceremony. It is the first time ever that a Thunderbird woman has won this honour. Jumper Mike Mason won the men's award in 2008.